Patient Testimonial: Panic Attacks, Trauma, Stress and Gut Disturbance

“I connected with Jonny after spending over a year with debilitating panic attacks, high anxiety and endless ailments that included skin issues and digestive problems. After taking antibiotics during a time where I struggled with a major relationship ending, all hell seemed to break loose in my body. I was googling fixes hours on end, day after day. Finally I came across Jonny and his journey. Here was someone who knew what he was talking about and had his own life experiences. He understood what I was going through. He took time to understand my situation, so he could concoct not only his magical elixir, but to help me mentally as well with tools to improve my mental well being. Without Jonny I’d still be searching google endlessly looking for that supplement or magic pill that would fix what was ruining my life. Jonny is a life saver.”

Josh (Canada)

At the start of treatment Josh filled in my symptom questionnaire sheet. This asks patient’s to score their symptoms from 0-10 in terms of how debilitating they feel.

Josh scored 119 at the start of the program. Dropping to 60 at the end of the 4 months. A decrease of 49.6%.

Josh contacted me after reading a blog post about how I had been in a similar health situation many years ago. We agreed to move through a monthly treatment program, whilst figuring out the complexities and time involved with posting medicine to west Canada. We have so far made it through approximately 4 months of treatment with Josh noticing major differences not only in his physiological health but more importantly, his mind. Josh now feels more resilient and better equipped to face difficult like events and is always enquiring in our calls about how he can achieve even greater states of health. We have many more months of powerful work together.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

Patient Testimonial: Panic attacks, Anxiety, Insomnia and Hypothyroidism

“I contacted Jonny because I was seeking help with insomnia, anxiety and panic, brought by stress from recent events.  I didn’t want to go down the conventional medical route, because of the side effects prescription medications might have. Very quickly after starting to take herbal tincture and a tea, my symptoms of panic have reduced and disappeared within a week. 

Being always a light sleeper, after about 3 weeks I noticed that my sleep was deep and uninterrupted. I haven’t slept that good for over a decade. 

Despite the fact that all my symptoms have vanished I decided to continue with herbs and now its 4 month on.  Recently I have done my annual blood test, which revealed that my thyroid function has normalised (TSH went from 5 to 2). I was told by the doctor before that I would need to increase the dose of thyroxine, but clearly there is no need for that now. 

From now on I will be consulting with Jonny as my go to herbalist for any issues, as in my humble opinion, the result will be better than any conventional doctor could possibly achieve.”

Anonymous

This patient completed my 3 month Pattern Transformation package.

At the start of the program the patient filled in my symptom questionnaire sheet. This asks patient’s to score their symptoms from 0-10 in terms of how debilitating they are.

The patient scored 73 at the start of the program. Dropping to 8 at the end of the 3 months. A decrease of 89%.

The patient recently had their routine thyroid bloodwork taken only to find that the levels of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) has dropped from 5 to 2. TSH is often high in states of hypothyroidism. The patient was already taking the prescription medication thyroxine but is now considering lowering it in response to their health and thyroid status now coming back into balance.

In this case we have a patient coming to me for help with stress, anxiety and panic. Going on to experience profound unexpected healing effects from treatment.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

Patient Testimonial: Hayfever

“I've had terrible hayfever since my teens and I was prescribed nasal spray, eye drops and antihistamine tablets which never worked. Every year my eyes would be on fire with itchiness, nose running and sneezing all over the place. I just got used to summer being the time where I felt I had a constant cold and I constantly felt lethargic with it. Sitting in the garden and being outdoors in the beautiful weather was becoming unbearable at times. I then decided to try Jonny as he and a friend told me about their experiences with hayfever and how his medicine had helped. I have now been drinking the fresh tea everyday and taking a tincture when it's really bad for about a month now and I feel so much better! I can't believe how much better this is than the medicine I have previously been prescribed! I am so excited to see how this works over time and hopefully one day I will be hayfever free, but for the moment I am over the moon with the results . Anyone who suffers with hayfever I can definitely reccommend Jonny and his amazing work! Thanks Jonny! 😊”

Paige was experiencing good health in comparison to most of the patients that consult with me. However, Hayfever had plagued her for many years with very little help from conventional prescription medication.

We had a short consultation and a daily herbal tea was prescribed to help modulate the immune system and the inflammatory response. A herbal tincture was also prescribed to consume during days out and flare ups. The combination is mostly a traditional formula which proved effective within weeks of use.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Fatigue, Poor Focus and Concentration

“What I really love about Jonny is the level of passion and enthusiasm that goes into the work he does. A premium service for a modest and affordable price.

Anyone can accumulate knowledge, but it takes real skill and talent to use and apply it in a way that helps other people and makes a lasting positive impact.

He is highly responsive to feedback and always looking to ensure the best experience. Delivery of tinctures and herbs is timely and goods are well packaged.

For me, the effects of the medicine were subtle at first. Rather than being a "quick fix", it took a little time to build up some momentum. A few months later, it is very clear that there have been significant improvements.

It does require that you look at and make changes to your lifestyle where necessary in order to support the process, and as such Jonny will explore with you what it is that might need adjusting.

I can wholeheartedly recommend Jonny to anyone that is looking for real change and not just a temporary solution / management of symptoms.”

Joe Million (UK)

Joe consulted with me for help with post-meal fatigue and suspected blood sugar imbalances. We analysed his history, specifically the last few years, to find the reasons as to why his body was stuck in a certain pattern.

After creating theories for the root cause I prescribed Joe a unique formulation of herbs that have not only increased his energy profile, but helped improve much needed focus and concentration for his busy work schedule and business.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Chronic fatigue, depression, migraines and menopausal mood swings

“OMG! What a guy! When I had my first consultation with Jonny 4 months ago, I was sick and tired of being sick and tired! I was depressed, sleeping 18-20 hours per day, hardly left the house, suffered with migraines 2 to 3 times per week, had no energy, suffered terribly with menopausal mood swings, had no confidence and was feeling incredibly low! I didn’t believe him when he said he could help me, after all, the medical system could barely keep my symptoms under control! I’d almost given up! Jonny put me on a gentle but firm herbal medicine, fast forward to today, I’ve started my own business, stood as a prospective parliamentary candidate and work out with a PT 2 to 3 times a week! Is he cheap? You might ask. Well that depends on your perspective! What price is your health worth to you? What do you spend on that Starbucks you just gotta have each day? His medicine and consultations works out at less than £5 per day. Is my health worth that to me? Totally! Jonny, I can’t recommend you highly enough and I’ll happily use your medicine for the rest of my life!!”

Sarah (UK)

Sarah had been visiting her doctor on and off for some time. Struggling to find answers for a long list of symptoms following the start of the menopause. Her chronic fatigue, low mood and energy was disabling. Leaving her with very little time in the day to do anything.

We began our consultation by taking a very thorough and detailed history of her past and present. The herbs quickly got to work as her weekly migraines stopped, followed shortly after by an increase in energy and mood. Needing far less sleep. This has eventually culminated in her coming off her migraine pills and anti-depressants. More recently her body is now creating enough energy that she is able to go back to the gym.

Sarah is proof that herbs can work at any point in life with dramatic effects. Well done Sarah. It has been really rewarding to see you gain your life back.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Podcast interview with Jo Cavalot of DOTTYMOW

Jo Cavalot is a local Sheffield de-cluttering expert who helps people find tranquility in their homes after being overwhelmed by hoarding. We met recently at a networking event and she invited me to her home to be interviewed about how i work for her podcast channel.

Click on the link HERE to be taken to her podcast channel and press PLAY.

During the 1 hour conversation we speak about:

• Our personal journeys of transcending our suffering and finding more purpose in life.

• My work with herbs and how I use them for helping people find their health and prosperity again.

• Flower remedies and herbal medicine.

• The difference between conventional healthcare and holistic medicine.

• Connecting the mind, body, past and present.

• And much more…….

Do you have any questions about anything on my social media platforms or this podcast? Feel free to email me and let’s talk.

Jo’s website can be found at https://dottymow.co.uk/

Please invite me to a podcast that you run and let’s talk……

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Change of location for Sheffield clinic

Unfortunately I will no longer be offering consultations from Breathe studios by the botanical gardens. Face-to-face consultations will now be held at:

SHEAF BANK CLINIC
SHEAF BANK BUSINESS PARK
SHEFFIELD
S2 3AA

This is still an appointment only service so please call/text/email to book in.

The clinic is in Heeley with plenty of ample parking around the clinic or within the business park where it is located. We have access to a large room with a massage table for examinations.

Consultations in Manchester are still at the same clinic as well as my online patients being unaffected by this move. Availability is always Tuesday to Saturday. I never answer calls or engage in herbal communications outside of these days.

Hope to see you soon…..

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Anxiety and depression

“My first meeting with Jonny now seems serendipitous and has been a blessing ever since. I initially met Jonny when he kindly allowed me to me sit in on some of his consultations as part of my acupuncture degree.

I’ve always had a fascination with herbal medicine but seeing Jonny work really opened my eyes to how these plant medicines can make profound changes in a person. What amazed me the most was how the medicine can have such an effect upon mental states and motivation (coupled with Jonny’s care and attention).

Shortly after this first observation visit with Jonny I decided I would try this medicine out for myself to see if it could help with what now seems like surface level issues. I believe my main complaint was acid reflux and general digestive issues, but through further questioning it became clear that it was my mental state that needed addressing. Jonny expertly weaved through the initial physical complaint and began to delve deeper within me to see what was really going on.

Without going in to too much personal detail, I will say that the medicine did and continues to have profound effects upon me. My mental health has been the most stable that I can remember and my motivations are much clearer.

Furthermore, I don’t believe I would have gotten through my first year at university without the help of Jonny and his herbs. I was experiencing anxiety so acute at times that I felt completely frozen and at it’s mercy.

Jonny will help you in every which way he can, but you have to work with Jonny and the herbs. There is an aspect of personal responsibility/action in the therapeutic relationship to get the most from this medicine. He’ll explain the actions of the herbs, histories associated with them, peer reviewed studies and any other questions you may have associated with your medicine. There is no ambiguity with your prescription and Jonny is well versed in his craft which ultimately leaves you feeling empowered.

If you’re considering seeing Jonny then I can’t recommend him highly enough but you really need to witness the magic for yourself. Herbal medicine has been incredibly beneficial to me and I’ve seen first hand how it has helped the lives of others.

He has helped me to crystallise what it is I want from my life, continually inspires and provides vision for what I am striving for for when I graduate.”

Jamie (UK)

Jamie originally came to see me as a student. To sit in and observe how I work. His inquisitive nature led him to feel pulled into sitting in the patient chair himself and sharing his vulnerabilities. We quickly identified areas of his life that needed attention that he had not quite seen for himself.

His herbal prescription gave him the energy and support needed to make the changes necessary to bring about a calmer more resilient mindset. One that now experiences far less anxiety than it used to. I am sure Jamie will continue to grow and evolve into the man he has now seen ahead of him, the one I could see myself when we first consulted.

Patient Testimonial: Depression, low body temperature and irregular periods

I had pushed myself to the limits - I had become volatile, sad, depressed and hopeless. Miserable. Really, it wasn’t fun to be alive, every day I was afraid of myself. What doom would I bring upon myself or those around me? Physically, I always felt cold (even during the summer time), my periods had become irregular as well as the fact that I had become too skinny. 

A friend told me about herbal medicine. I was curious. I am a firm believer that conventional and complementary treatments can work well together, that way a person has more choice and freedom over their health. This time, the conventional way wasn’t helping me, I wasn’t taken seriously. That’s when I got in touch with Jonny, I needed my health and sanity back.

Jonny is extremely knowledgeable, non-judgmental, but still firm in his approach. He is what one imagines, when one thinks of a wise health practitioner. Jonny usually explains how a herb works, which might appeal and reassure those who are more sceptical of herbalism. It can feel liberating to be aware what truly is in the medicine (tincture, tea, powder) you consume. 

It’s been 2 years now. The journey has lead me to feel more self acceptance, a increased warmer body, slow but steady weight gain and a lot more happier outlook on life. When my mood dips, I don’t destroy my relationships, I don’t quit my job, I don’t self harm. I am able to put on a nice upbeat song and dance my way out of the blues. I dance and stretch again! I love my job, I am able to express myself to the people around me, if something is wrong. My journey is not over, I am getting better and better every day, and there’s still space for more improvement.

I am amazed by the power of the herbs.

I can only be thankful and grateful to Jonny and the Herbs.

Eve (UK)

Eve was in a deep state of prolonged depression and sensitive mood swings when we first consulted. Her body was beginning to slow down with fatigue, whilst negative thinking patterns were keeping her locked into a cycle of suffering. Not only this, but her periods had been irregular for some time. With herbs and constant exploration of feelings, emotions, past events and childhood experiences we managed to unravel things slowly. Her drive and focus began to shine through the more her life began to improve. Culminating in many powerful lifestyle changes that now feed more joy and passion into her life. Well done Eve. It has been an incredible transformation over the last 2 years.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Anxiety, depression, weight-loss and confidence

“Before I started working with Jonny, I had dropped out of university and generally felt miserable about my life in general, that I wasn’t going anywhere and was wasting my talents, but I was stuck in a rut I couldn’t get out of. No self confidence, unhappy with my physical or mental states, I never really felt comfortable talking about myself and my problems to anyone, so I kept it inside most of the time.

Initially I was sceptical about seeing Jonny but I’m glad my worries were baseless. The herbal medicines he gave me were tailored to my symptoms and changed month to month as my treatment progressed.

Since I started working with Jonny, taking the time to do the simple and sensible things he recommended, taking the herbal medicines that he made specifically for me and exploring honestly the reasons why I think and act the way I do, I feel like I’ll actually be able to take the next steps in life and not just wishing that I could: university, a proper career, overcoming deeply ingrained bad habit loops that stop me meeting new people and doing new things.

Jonny managed to get me to open up about things I’ve hidden for years, things that formed the bedrock of my anxieties and fears. Now, I finally am able to recognise and deal with them as they come up: the habits are hard to break, but I am finally equipped mentally to overcome them.

Jonny is so easy to talk to, I couldn’t believe some of the stuff I was saying in our consultations. It’s not easy to admit your failings, but he has a great empathy for people and helps you use those negative experiences as learning opportunities, not the failures you think they are.

I’m going back to university in September, have lost lots of weight and generally am feeling more confident in myself and my abilities than I can ever remember. I have clear goals and career ambitions for the first time, not just a vague outline of a plan that I could use to put off actually thinking about it. I’m glad that Jonny was recommended to me and I would recommend him to you.”

Chris Meredith (UK)

Chris was feeling trapped with his old patterns of behaviour that were stopping him from progressing in life. He was open about his scepticism of herbs and my coaching process but quickly started to see positive changes once we found what herbs and lifestyle changes he responded to. Chris has achieved all of the goals and targets we set out from day 1, plus many more he did not know were part of our 6 month journey.

Chris’s confidence, mental health and courage have improved significantly. I wish you all the best with going back to university to continue on your new path of success and independence.

Patient Testimonial: Digestive disturbance including pain and belching. Cold legs and difficulty getting to sleep

“I first saw Jonny in January, 2019. His gentle yet analytical approach enabled me to sort through the maze of issues i was facing so that the most pressing problems were brought to the surface to be dealt with. I have had severe belching for years. This occurs usually as I settle down to sleep. It can continue for 2 hours and sometimes longer. Although changing my diet can alleviate the symptoms, it does not remove them. That is until I used Jonny’s herbs and my symptoms subsided dramatically. I still experience belching but is only usually now after eating too late or consuming inappropriately sized meals. It is however, a huge relief.
I have also suffered from cold legs for years. The coldness used to begin above my sacrum, spread across my buttocks and down my legs stopping at my ankles. It wasn’t circulation. It wasn’t temperature. I have had this symptom in Greece in 90 degrees! The coldness is much worse at night and prevents me sleeping as it brings with it a feeling of restlessness and irritation. When I met Jonny other treatments had reduced the extent of the coldness so that it appeared centred in my calves. After taking Jonny’s herbs I rarely experience this disturbing feeling now,
As I write, although the relief from the other symptoms I have described has been immense, there is no richer feeling than lying down in my comfy bed, closing my eyes, and sleeping almost immediately.
That is what the herbs have enabled me to do.”

Pam Hardy (UK)

Pam had a myriad of symptoms and health problems that were difficult to live with and understand. Her belching was keeping her awake at night, which was fueling restless sleep, leading to fatigue and further stress. Her lower limbs were also very cold. With herbs, coaching and lifestyles changes we managed to unravel a lot of these problems and treat them accordingly. Many symptoms have disappeared with only the belching stubbornly remaining, albeit only after a meal at a much more manageable level than before.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Herbs to improve your gut health

I often get asked at events or parties about specific herbs for specific problems. I often go into discussing how I (and many other herbalists) don’t work like how your doctor works. We tend to prescribe a concoction of different herbs (anywhere from 5-20 in my case) for each client. Every month the prescription is tweaked and changed to keep improving the function of the mind and body. Once i have said my piece on how i actually work with plants i then go onto discuss certain herbs for whatever problem people unveil to me.

Gut health is a hot topic at the moment with plenty of media outlets reporting on the advances in understanding the microbiome. As well as lots of coverage into the debilitating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disorder. Below i have listed the different herbs used in herbal medicine for treating specific issues of the gut.

Hydrochloria (Low stomach acid) and indigestion

Herbs that help increase stomach acid, bile and digestive enzyme production are classed as bitters. Bitters work by stimulating bitter receptors in the mouth that then go on to stimulate the autonomic nervous system into helping prepare digestive organs. Producing a number of reactions associated with more efficient digestion of food. Best consumed as an alcoholic extract aka tincture.

Bitters include - Wormwood (Artemesia absinthum), Gentian Root (Gentiana lutea), Dandelion Root (Taraxacum oficinale), Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)

Dandelion Flower (Taraxacum officinale). Herbalist's use the root as a bitter remedy to improve liver, gallbladder and digestive enzyme function.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Belching and gas

Herbs that help with bloating are classed as carminatives. Carminatives are rich in volatile oils that help contribute towards peristalsis. They sooth and settle the gut wall and the surrounding smooth muscle so that trapped gas can be moved.

Carminatives include - Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), Mint (Mentha piperita), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Ginger (Zingiber oficinale), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Constipation

Herbs that help contribute towards bowel movements are known as laxatives. Laxatives stimulate contractions of the muscles that line the colon or work by bulking the stool by drawing water into the colon.

Stimulating laxatives include - Burdock (Arctium lappa), Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)

Bulking laxatives - Marshmallow root (Althea officinalis), Psyllium seed (Plantago psyllium)

Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria). Seen here without the yellow flower. Use the leaf as a tea or tincture for loose stools.

Diarrhea

Herbs that help with loose stools or diarrhea are known as astringents. They contain a high volume of a constituent known as a ‘tannin’. Tannins work by binding protein molecules together, lowering inflammation and creating a barrier against infection.

Astringents include - Oak Bark (Quercus spp), Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria).

Other actions for the gut include herbs which help fungal, parasitic or bacterial infections as well as herbs that work on the human stress response. The function of the gut is autonomic and responds to herbs that work with hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA/Human stress response).

There are many other actions that herbs have which exert an effect on the gut. Most of the above have the largest evidence base for their reported medicinal effects.

Oak leaf (Quercus spp). Herbalist’s use a tincture of the bark for severe diarrhea.

Sometimes you may find that simple herbs on there own can offer relief. But complex, chronic health problems often involve working with somebody that understands how to offer herbal prescriptions that offer a formula which works on an array of issues. Problems with digestion often go together with mental health issues, autoimmune diseases and skin disorders. It can feel like a minefield trying to work all this out on your own. Find somebody you trust and try not to focus too much attention on one particular symptom or problem. Rather try to see how it might all be connected.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Low mood

“I contacted Jonny under the guise of suffering with very swollen lower legs but during my first consultation I found myself talking about how low my mood was. Jonny made me feel so comfortable that I talked and cried freely.  He nudged me to explore why topics brought out particular emotions and encouraged me to consider why these were triggers. Quickly we recognised how my fear and reluctance to make changes to myself challenged the role others expect of me. During my first few months of treatment I drew courage from the supportive (but challenging) space of Jonny’s consultations and made significant changes including changing my job. I no longer feel like a square peg in a round hole. The impact has been noticeable especially within the toxic relationships that I was able to recognise and change my reaction to. 

In short I have been able to reflect on my issues in a supportive environment and make changes that I felt in control of but never thought that I would have the courage to make. 

Thank you” 

Amy (UK)

Amy came to see me following a referral. We went through areas of her life that were causing distress and approached them with courage and determination. Big changes in her job, relationships and family dynamics on top of her herbal prescription brought about a much needed improvement in mental wellbeing and a clarity of how to make further changes to her health and wellness. It has been a joy to watch these changes bring out the passion in her life again.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Glastonbury Music Festival 2019

I have been invited to work as a medical herbalist at the herbal medicine stall and consultation space at Glastonbury Music Festival 2019.

I will be selling plenty of herbs alongside some of the top herbalists in the country as well as offering acute herbal medicine consultations. The owners of The Nether Edge Herbarium in Sheffield will also be there with me.

Please note that I will not be able to offer any normal herbal service from Sheffield, Manchester or online from Tuesday 25th of June until Tuesday 2nd of July. Please order your herbs or book in for a consultation before or after this time.

And if you are going to Glastonbury then please come and say Hi…….talk to me about herbs and plants!!!

Photo by Joe Green on Unsplash

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Depression, Suspected Oestrogen Dominance and Post-Traumatic Injury Rehabilitation

“My journey with Jonny started a long time before I took the first medicine. A very good friend of mine told me months before, how great her results with the herbs were. That the herbs changed her whole life and that she never wants to be without them again. But being a very skeptical person in general, I first didn’t believe her. It wasn’t that I didn’t believe HER but more that I couldn’t imagine how herbs should change your life this way. For us lawyers things must be logical, explainable and most important rational. But that’s what herbs are not - for sure. 

By the time I was listening to my friends success story with the herbs and her experiences, I found myself in the worst situation of my life. I had just survived a severe motorcycle accident and was struggling with pretty much everything in my life. I was in a huge deep depression - not meeting anybody, not talking to anybody, and worst of all I was physically and mentally in a very bad condition. After I hit rock bottom I finally decided to contact Jonny because I thought it couldn’t get any worse anyway. The first magical thing of many that happened just within our first meeting was - that I trust that this person 100%. And believe me, trust is an issue with me. :) 

Our first consultation was maybe one hour and I talked like we knew each other for years. Jonny has an understanding and a very good sense for people - their needs and their problems. He really feels your situation even though it’s maybe a female thing. He knew right away what I was suffering and tried to feel into my situation. The fact that our consultation was in English - I’m not a native speaker and we talked over Skype - was no problem at all. I felt more understood and secure then with some other doctor I was seeing face-to-face. 

What happened afterwords was really a miracle. Sometimes I still can’t believe what really happened and how the herbs changed my life. I came to see Jonny with physical issues - and he changed my life with all my mental issues. With my mental issues all of my physical issues disappeared. Not only the symptoms but my whole life changed in a way I can’t really describe. Being a very impulsive, loud, strong, and pushing person - demanding a lot from myself and from all people in my life I became the most calm and relaxed person I could imagine. I learned to deal with myself, with everything in my life and with everyone in my life. I learned to set boundaries, to respect myself, to respect my body and to respect my life. Moreover and maybe most important I learned that all my physical issues are connected to my mental state of mind. 

I don’t want to put it wrong. My life isn’t perfect now. There are still problems hitting me, my life, all the people in my life, my family and all the connected circumstances. But the thing I learned with the herbs is to deal with them, without breaking every single time. During the time with the herbs I changed my job, I moved to two different apartments and had several relationships end but walked through it very calm and controlled. My life still has ups and downs, but I learned to handle it and I learned to solve it. 

So, to come to an end - if you ask me what the herbs changed? They changed everything! I can’t really tell you what but what I know for sure is that I’m not the same person I was before. Jonny is a master of his job and he knows the herbs very well, he knows his job and he became my herbalist but moreover my therapist over the past year. I thank God I got to know him because somehow he and his herbs saved my life.”

Tihana Dragic

Tihana has progressed rapidly with herbs. Discovering how her body and mind are intricately connected. This patient was a little skeptical about herbs and how I work but we quickly created a safe container with which profound changes have filtered through to her life. Her mood, monthly cycle and post-motorbike accident symptoms (there was a list of unexplained, chronic sensations and symptoms) have all improved with the past year of treatment. I have great respect for the courage Tihana has shown in engaging with herbs and therapy in dealing with her medical problems.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Foraging for Spring medicine and food

With Spring looking like it has arrived early this year in the UK, maybe it’s time for you to start foraging for wild foods and/or medicine?

Britain is packed full of early Spring plants that can be eaten raw or with minimal preparation to maximise your intake of nutritious plant vitamins, minerals and phytoconstituents. You don’t usually have to look far to find them, even in the city. Although finding plants to forage that are clean, unpolluted and safe to eat usually involves escaping the city a little.

Why should you eat wild plants?

Well wild plants seed themselves through the process of nature, using very little if any human intervention. Wild plants are said to contain much higher amounts of vitamins, minerals and medicinal compounds than conventionally grown food (usually sprayed with chemicals).

I believe that regular consumption of wild plants is good for the heart as searching for them helps you connect more with nature and gets you out of the house. It is also fun!

So what is out there?

Right now there are a few things to look out for, but with each week into March, spring food and medicine will rapidly emerge. For now, have a look out for:

Crataegus laevigata (Hawthorn)

The leaf buds are currently opening and make a wonderful juicy, leafy snack. Pick and eat on the spot or bring home for use as a salad. We have a window of about 4-5 weeks whilst all the buds open to reveal the light green leaves before they start to go darker and become more bitter and inedible.

Difficult to mistake with anything poisonous. Look out for the familiar 5 finger leaf shape.

Used in herbal medicine to lower blood pressure, help with anxiety and improve mood. I find the leaf particularly helpful for hot flushes in peri-menopausal women.

Galium aparine (Cleavers)

Cleavers have started to appear already in my local park and are easily identified by their thin, long stalk with the 6 leaves spreading out every few centimetres. The tiny white flowers come out over summer and the seeds in late summer, early autumn.

This plant is super juicy and can be eaten raw or put through a blender or juicer. It is a popular remedy for lymphatic drainage. I have used it successfully in helping patient’s with Hepatitis who have painful raised Lymph nodes. A simple tea of this Spring plant, consumed for a few days, cleared Lymph nodes after many years of pain and soreness under the ears.

You might remember this plant as a child due to it being thrown at people and watching its hooks sink into clothing. Many British school-children have played with this plant.

Urtica dioica (Nettles)

Nettles are highly prized for their medicinal qualities. Especially for seasonal allergies, arthritis and anaemia. But did you know they can be eaten raw? If you approach the leaf from underneath and move your fingers up and in, closing the leaf above with a pincer grip then you can usually close the top of the leaf and fold it up without getting stung. Then place the parcel into the back of your mouth and chew.

Or otherwise add to a smoothie or put through a blender. My hayfever improved significantly when i started adding nettles to my diet.

Taraxacum oficinale (Dandelion)

The beloved Dandelion. Hated as a weed. Loved as a foraged food and medicine. The Spring leaves make a tasty snack when used like Lettuce.

Remember that it won’t stay tasty forever. As the year progresses, the leaves become darker and bitter.

The root can be eaten too, but this is often roasted. Roasted Dandelion root makes the perfect coffee alternative. Delicious!

Used in herbal medicine as a diuretic for fluid retention and disorders of the kidney.

Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort Plantain)

This is a very abundant plant (Not to be confused with the Carribean fruit). Often viewed as a weed when found in your back garden. The leaves can be eaten in salads.

Used in herbal medicine as a wound healing herb for cuts, bites, stings or itchy skin. I use this plant a lot in cases of inflammatory bowel disorders like Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis. It also often used in respiratory disorders with an excessive, dry cough.

Remember

Always look for plants away from the road and remember that animal faeces or urine could possibly be on your foraged plants. Wash in clean water if you are concerned. Always forage on private land with the owners permission and use a guidebook if you are worried about picking the wrong plants.

All of the mentioned foods/medicines above are found abundantly throughout the UK and are in excess supply. You will not harm an ecosystem by consuming these plants (provided you don’t pick all the leaves or remove all the plants in an area).

I will be announcing herb walks for Spring soon. So watch out for the planned events!

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

BBC Radio Sheffield Panel discussion on Skin Health

I took part in a discussion today on skin health. Speaking about a herbalist’s approach to skin health and tips on what you might be able to do to figure out what is worth exploring or investigating in connection to your skin problem.

The program includes a local beauty therapist who speaks of her treatment of skin problems and a Sheffield psychologist that specialises in researching the connection between mental health and skin.

Have a listen at:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p06yv2ns

Skip to 1 Hour, 8 minutes to hear the 20 minute discussion.

If you have a skin problem that has not responded to conventional treatment so far then please get in touch to see how herbal medicine can help you.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Lyme Disease

"I'm really happy I met Jonny when I was really in dire straights with my health situation. I was suffering from Lyme disease mixed in with lots of other nebulous health problems. He prescribed me a set of herbs, but to me the most crucial first step towards recovery was the face-to-face consultation we had. He knew all the right questions to ask, including my signs and symptoms as well as investigating my personal history and emotional landscape. The advice he gave me during the consultation was somewhat challenging to put into practice, but it was the pivotal first step. I kept taking the herbs, both the tincture and the powder for about 3 months in total.

It's has been tricky for me to untangle the symptoms of Lyme disease from other issues, and likewise it's difficult to tell which treatments have been ultimately effective - I have also had two courses of heavy antibiotics. Just the effects of those seemed to have taken 3 months to resolve.

But the mindset that Jonny helped me to get into has definitely helped me to endure the worst of it, and to keep on moving towards recovery. Now I can hardly recognise myself from 6 months ago - I feel like a human being again, which sometimes feels like a miracle! I still have some way to go to feeling 100% all the time, but it's slowly getting there. The main lesson for me has been to stay patient - some things just take their time"

Dmitry Ignatyev

I met this patient during a herb-walk in Manchester and learned about how debilitating his condition had become. Dmitry had a positive NHS diagnosis for Lyme disease and was becoming frustrated with conventional treatment as well as a myriad of symptoms. We consulted face-to-face in Manchester and followed up via skype and phone consultations. Lyme disease can be a very confusing and progressive disease so the herbal treatment had to involve tinctures, powders, capsules and supplements as well as guidance around relaxation techniques and use of a sauna to bring heat back into the body. Dmitry decided to use pharmaceutical antibiotics (again) alongside herbal treatment and has since made a speedy recovery towards feeling well again.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

Patient Testimonial: Ulcerative colitis, food intolerances and dysfunctional immune system

“Jonny worked with me in 2016 to help me with healing my gut after recovering from 15 years of Ulcerative Colitis which left me sensitive to many foods and with a low functioning immune system. I had started on the journey of healing from Ulcerative Colitis (which leaves you with ulcers in the rectum, chronic diarrhea and frequently passing mucus) many years before and had not had a severe episode for almost 10 years by the time I met Jonny.

But I still had sensitivities to many foods and was getting sick with colds almost every six weeks whilst often suffering from many small health issues which built up and left me feeling as though I was always needing to heal from something. Using his herbs and caring support for 6 months, I started to become more in touch with my bodies needs again and started to make changes to my diet which really helped with my healing process. Nowadays my sensitivities are very predictable and do not cause me so much problems and my gut health feels restored as my immune system is much stronger and I barely ever get colds anymore.

Jonny was also working with me and some other patients to help us psychologically through the use of herbs. During a particular session with Jonny we used a certain herb which really helped me to go deeply within myself and remove huge blockages in my mind which had previously stopped me from letting things happen in flow rather than trying to control the outcome. The experience was very intense and a moment of absolute clarity which I will never forget. Jonny always treated me with the utmost care and respect and I felt safe and able to say and do whatever I needed in his presence. This experience of working with Jonny has stayed with me as a pivotal moment in my life which evoked positive change in my mind and body and I will always be grateful for the chance I had to work with him and look forward to doing so again in the future.”

Emma Buggy

This patient consulted with me when I was still at University and trying to learn how to harness the full potential of herbs. We consulted via skype and the medicine was posted monthly. Emma was always open to discussing her life and had already done a lot of healing in regards to her autoimmune disease. Herbal medicine was another ‘piece of the puzzle’ for healing her sickness. Emma has since gone on to become involved with learning, practicing and teaching ‘non-violent communication’ workshops and holding group spaces. It has been rewarding to watch Emma change her life to suit her needs accordingly and to see how her illness has improved further since we last consulted. Wishing you all the best with your future mission to spread the message of non-violent communication through the world.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary

My interview with BBC Radio Sheffield

For all who missed it, I was on the local BBC radio afternoon show with Rony Robinson last week. I was certainly nervous but I feel like I gave my truth and I hope you enjoy it.

The BBC have informed me the interview will be available for free listening for 30 days. After which, it will disappear into the archives. So please have a listen if you want to hear me talk about my life, how I discovered herbal medicine and how it helped my mental health problems better than anything before.

Skip to 1 hour 35. I am on for about 20 minutes (with a Pink Floyd track in the middle). Please share the link with anyone you know who is suffering with mental health issues and see if this can bring them some hope or clarity that there is another potential way to solve the crisis of serious mental disorders.

The link is available here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/

If you have any questions about the interview, in regards to any topics or information we spoke of then feel free to contact me via the email listed below. I have numerous patients with mental health problems that see me for help using herbal medicine and nutritional support.

Jonny Woodall
Medical Herbalist and Flower Essence Therapist
BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine
National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Contact me for help with your health problems and illness

PHONE: +44(0) 7525827558

EMAIL: jonnyapothecary@gmail.com

SKYPE: jonnysapothecary